Become a Leader in Trade Security: Supervisory Import Specialist with CBP

Are you looking to take your expertise in trade compliance to the federal level? The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently hiring for the position of Supervisory Import Specialist (CDI) in Charleston, South Carolina. This role is not just a job; it is a chance to shape the policies and training that secure our nation's borders and facilitate global commerce.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory Import Specialist, you will serve as a key member of the Trade and Cargo Academy. Your primary responsibilities will include:

Curriculum Development: Designing, researching, and revising advanced training programs to meet evolving CBP objectives.
Instructional Leadership: Providing guidance on laws, regulations, and documentation related to the examination, admissibility, and tariff classification of merchandise.
Staff Management: Supervising trainees and junior specialists, establishing performance expectations, and providing administrative counsel.
Strategic Oversight: Reviewing emerging enforcement trends to modify course curricula and align training with current policies.

Core Competency Comparison

Competency	Focus Area	Impact
Technical Expertise	Tariff Classification & Appraisement	Ensures regulatory accuracy
Leadership	Staff Development & Mentorship	Builds a high-performing workforce
Communication	Policy Implementation	Drives national compliance standards

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Residency: Must have lived in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years.
Assessment: Must pass the General Supervisor Test Battery (Managerial Writing and Critical Thinking).
Resume: Strictly limited to two pages.

Salary and Benefits

The GS-13 salary range for this position is $106,437 to $138,370 per year. In addition to a competitive federal salary, employees receive a robust benefits package that includes:

Extensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid federal holidays and sick/annual leave.
Tuition reimbursement and ongoing developmental opportunities.
Flexible work schedules and wellness programs.

Application Tips

Applying for federal jobs can be highly competitive. Follow these steps to improve your chances:

Tailor Your Resume: Since you are limited to two pages, focus on your accomplishments and specific experience in tariff classification or training delivery.
Use the Right Format: Upload your resume as a PDF. Ensure it includes your full name, contact details, and a clear timeline of your work history.
Prepare for the Exam: The supervisor assessment is a critical component of your rating. Dedicate time to practice critical thinking and managerial writing scenarios.
Check Your Eligibility: If you are a veteran or a current federal employee, ensure you provide the necessary documentation, such as an SF-50, to support your claims.

The role of a Supervisory Import Specialist is vital to the integrity of U.S. trade. If you possess the leadership skills and the technical knowledge of import regulations, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity for career growth and public service. Apply today to contribute to the mission of securing America's borders.

Why This Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi) Job Matters

Shape the future of global trade security by leading the next generation of Customs and Border Protection professionals in Charleston, SC.

Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi) Job Overview

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking experienced professionals to serve as Supervisory Import Specialists (CDI) within the Office of Training and Development. This leadership role is pivotal in equipping the workforce with the knowledge necessary to secure our borders and facilitate legitimate international trade. Based at the Trade and Cargo Academy, you will design, implement, and oversee advanced training curricula that ensure compliance with complex federal import regulations, tariff classifications, and trade enforcement policies.

Requirements for Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi)

Must be a United States citizen.
Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Ability to meet residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. or protectorates for three of the last five years).
Must pass a background investigation.
Must achieve a passing score on the General Supervisor Test Battery (Managerial Writing and Critical Thinking).
Resume must not exceed two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi)

Expertise in tariff classification and merchandise appraisement.
Proven background in reviewing Federal import laws and prohibited/restricted item documentation.
Experience in designing or delivering professional training programs.
Background in interpreting complex trade policy and developing strategic plans.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Life and long-term care insurance.
✓Retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Flexible spending accounts and health/wellness programs.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave.
✓Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development.
✓Fitness center access and transportation subsidies.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Import Specialist (Cdi) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing your relevant experience, hours per week, and salary history.
Submit your application and required supporting documents (such as SF-50 for current federal employees) before the deadline.
Complete the required online General Supervisor Test Battery via the provided link after submission.

💡 General Tips

Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as this will lead to immediate disqualification.
Use your resume to explicitly link your past experience to the duties described in the job announcement.
Ensure all uploaded documents are in a readable format, preferably PDF.
Monitor your email for the link to the mandatory supervisor assessment.
Review your SF-50 forms carefully if you are a current or former federal employee to ensure all tenure and position data is correct.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a polygraph required for this position?

Yes, this is a polygraph-required position. While not always a pre-employment requirement, you may be asked to complete one during the hiring process.

What is the duration of this appointment?

This position is filled on a temporary basis for a period not-to-exceed three years, with the possibility of a two-year extension.

What kind of training will I undergo?

You will be required to successfully complete seven weeks of intensive, paid training at the CBP Trade and Cargo Training Academy in Charleston, SC.

How long is the temporary assignment?

This position is for a period not-to-exceed three years, with potential for a two-year extension.

Will I need to attend training?

Yes, you must successfully complete seven weeks of paid training at the Trade and Cargo Training Academy in Charleston.

What if I have a disability?

Reasonable accommodations are available for the testing process. Please request these prior to starting your assessments.

Job from Customs And Border Protection

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component, CBP, are responsible for one of the most critical missions in the United States: ensuring the safety of our nation while facilitating the flow of legitimate travel and trade. Employees at CBP are guided by the core values of Vigilance, Service to Country, and Integrity. By joining the Office of Training and Development, you will be at the forefront of educating the workforce that screens passengers, seizes illegal contraband, and enforces complex trade laws.